The tragic demise of the promising 17-year-old Nick Hickey, who succumbed to the actions of Guillermo Hoyo, has cast an enduring pall of grief over his family.

Guillermo Hoyo, an Ottawa paralegal of 37 years at the time of the incident, has found solace in his father’s home upon his conditional release.

For Nick’s mother, Tracy Mellon, every day is a haunting reflection of the absence left by her son’s premature passing. In her eyes, Guillermo Hoyo, who battles with bipolar and cannabis use disorders, is now free to be a paralegal in Ontario again.

Photo: A photo of 17-year-old Nick Hickey

Return to the legal world

The Law Society Tribunal has greenlighted Guillermo Hoyo’s return to the legal world, tethered to an array of stringent conditions.

He is to sustain his legal employment, submit to constant supervision, and adhere to a rigorous treatment plan, notably abstaining from alcohol, cannabis, and illicit substances. The sword of Damocles hangs above his professional status, ready to cut ties at the slightest breach of his conditions.

Eligible for Reemployment: Paralegal Involved in Teen’s Death in Ottawa

Nick’s extraordinary virtues shone brightly in the heartfelt eulogies penned by his family and teachers back in 2019. His stepfather, Pete Mellon, spoke about Nick’s inherent ethical guidelines and staunch opposition to substance abuse.

His educators painted a picture of a dependable young man, buoyant in personality, and teeming with creativity, with his abrupt departure from life being viewed as a profound tragedy.

A measure of disquiet looms among some relatives over Guillermo Hoyo’s wealthy upbringing, casting a harsh contrast to Nick’s turbulent life journey.

Amidst these adversities, Nick was a beacon of affection for those who knew him. Jennifer Scott, his teacher, and a neighbour who cherished his daily passings by her porch remember him fondly.

Guillermo Hoyo – Ontario Paralegal

The tribunal’s chair contends that Guillermo Hoyo’s reinstatement is grounded in the public interest. He assures that the paralegal’s professional revival will hinge on his competence, seeking a balance between public safety and Escobedo-Hoyo’s employment rights, with an aim to secure a harmless practice.

The Ontario Review Board promises to hold annual reviews for Guillermo Hoyo, even following his discharge from the psychiatric hospital. These precautions will persist until they are assured of his harmless nature towards society.

Dr. Helen Ward, the tribunal’s appointed psychiatrist, identified Guillermo Hoyo’s cannabis use as a significant catalyst for his manic bouts. Despite this, she asserts that his condition is currently in remission.

Considering his present mental health status and the supporting network he has, Dr. Ward affirms that Escobedo-Hoyo is equipped to proficiently execute his paralegal obligations.

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Guillermo Hoyo (Ontario Paralegal) Eligible To Work After Teen Murder